William R. “Billy Bob” Barker, 85 of Danville died February 21, 2024. He was born in Trenton, NJ on July 19, 1938, to the late Thurland and Beatrice Young Barker. He was predeceased by his wife Carol Linney Barker.

Billy Bob was a distinguished individual who excelled in both academics and sports. Graduating from Danville High School in 1956, he was a true scholar-athlete, lettering in football, basketball, baseball, and golf during his high school years. He was a proud member of the 1954 DHS State Championship Football Team. In 1961, Billy Bob earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky School of Commerce in Industrial Administration. He was also an active member of the University of Kentucky Alumni Association and proudly held the title of Kentucky Colonel.

Professionally, Bill had a successful career in quality control and optical sales for Corning, Inc. for 34 years across seven locations. His work there contributed significantly to the glass manufacturing industry. Billy Bob never met a stranger, loved to tell stories, he was a loyal and honest friend.

Bill was deeply involved in his community, being a longstanding member of the First Christian Church and serving in various capacities, including as an Elder Emeritus, Treasurer, Trustee, and Choir Member. He was a faithful servant to the Lord. His commitment extended beyond the church, with his participation as a long-time member of the Danville Country Club. His golf buddies stayed by his side through thick and thin.

He was a beloved husband to Ann R. Barker and a devoted father to Debbie (Jeff) Baker, Mandy (Neil) Smith, and Cyndi (Mark) Coleman. Billy Bob also leaves behind a legacy through his grandchildren Amber (Adam) Shartzer, Shelby (Patrick) Hayes, Kody (Lauren) Smith, Rachel Coleman, and Carolee Coleman, and great-grandchildren Ainsley Michelle Shartzer, Avery Rose Shartzer, and Alivia James Shartzer. He loved his family, was a patient father, and found true joy in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be 4 – 7 p.m., Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at First Christian Church. The funeral service will be at 1 p.m., Wednesday, February 28, 2024, also at First Christian Church. Pallbearers will be Darrell Ensor, LeRoy Horn, Jeff Baker, Neil Smith, Mark Coleman, and Kody Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Ronnie Galloway, Mark Day, E.G. Plummer, Louis Kerrick, Elmer Jackson, and Rick Hempel. The burial will be in Bellevue Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested “In memory of Billy Bob Barker” to The ALS Association https://www.als.org The ALS Association PO Box 37022 Boone, IA 50037-0022 or “In memory of Billy Bob Barker” to First Christian Church 555 E Lexington Ave, Danville, KY 40422. For condolences and to share memories please visit www.stithcares.com